Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
Introduction
This Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip combines creamy, spicy, and tangy flavors for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for holiday gatherings or casual snacking.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1–2 jalapeños, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Step 2: Add cranberry sauce, jalapeños, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Step 3: Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined.
- Step 4: Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
- Step 5: Serve with crackers, chips, or fresh vegetables.
Tips & Variations
- For less heat, remove jalapeño seeds before chopping.
- Try adding a splash of orange juice for a citrusy twist.
- Use homemade cranberry sauce for a fresher flavor.
- Garnish with extra green onions or fresh herbs before serving.
Storage
Store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving again. This dip is best served chilled but can be brought to room temperature for 15 minutes for easier spreading.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, this dip benefits from resting in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, making it ideal to prepare a few hours or the day before serving.
What can I serve with this dip besides crackers?
This dip pairs well with fresh vegetable sticks like carrots and celery, pita chips, or even toasted baguette slices.
PrintCranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip Recipe
This Cranberry Jalapeño Cream Cheese Dip combines the creamy richness of softened cream cheese with the sweet tartness of cranberry sauce and the spicy kick of jalapeños. Perfectly balanced with garlic powder, green onions, and seasonings, this dip is an ideal appetizer or snack to serve with crackers, chips, or fresh vegetables. It’s easy to prepare, requiring no cooking, and chilling enhances the flavors for a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Dip Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1–2 jalapeños, finely chopped (adjust based on spice preference)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Beat the Cream Cheese: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using a hand mixer or whisk until it becomes smooth and creamy with no lumps.
- Add Flavorings: Add the cranberry sauce, finely chopped jalapeños, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the bowl with the cream cheese.
- Combine Thoroughly: Mix all the ingredients well until fully incorporated and the mixture is uniform in texture and color.
- Chill the Dip: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dip for at least 30 minutes. This rest period allows the flavors to meld together and improves the texture.
- Serve: Once chilled, serve the dip cold with your choice of crackers, chips, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- For less heat, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before chopping.
- Use freshly chopped green onions for the best flavor; scallions are a good substitute.
- The dip can be made up to a day in advance and refrigerated.
- If cream cheese is too firm, soften it by leaving it at room temperature for about 30 minutes before preparation.
- Adjust seasoning to taste after mixing, especially salt and pepper.
Keywords: cranberry jalapeño dip, cream cheese dip, holiday appetizers, spicy cream cheese dip, easy party dip
